How often should I service my car?

Most cars need a minor service every 10,000 miles or 12 months, and a major service every 20,000 miles or 24 months. Severe driving conditions (lots of short trips, towing, dusty roads) may require more frequent servicing. Always check your manufacturer's handbook.

What is the difference between a minor and major service?

A minor (or interim) service covers oil and filter changes, fluid top-ups, and basic checks. A major service includes everything in a minor service plus air filter, cabin filter, spark plugs, brake fluid, and a thorough inspection of brakes, suspension, and other components.

What are severe driving conditions?

Severe conditions include frequent short trips (under 5 miles), stop-start city driving, towing heavy loads, driving on dusty or unpaved roads, and extreme hot or cold climates. These conditions put extra stress on the engine and fluids, requiring more frequent servicing.

Can I skip interim services?

It is not recommended. Interim services help catch problems early and keep fluid levels correct. Skipping them can lead to premature wear and more expensive repairs later. They are especially important for high-mileage drivers or those in severe conditions.

Does servicing affect my warranty?

Yes. Missing scheduled services can void your manufacturer warranty. You do not have to use a dealer — any reputable garage can service your car using manufacturer-approved parts and schedules without affecting your warranty, under UK consumer law.

CarCalcs

Service Schedule Calculator — Next Service Milestones

Calculate when your next car service is due based on mileage, service type, and driving conditions.

Current Mileage

Current odometer reading in miles

Last Service Mileage

Distance in miles

Service Type

Service type

Driving Conditions

Driving conditions

How We Calculate This

How It Works

The calculator uses standard UK service intervals adjusted for your driving conditions:

Minor service: Every 10,000 miles (normal), 7,000 miles (severe)
Major service: Every 20,000 miles (normal), 14,000 miles (severe)
Interim service: Every 6,000 miles (normal), 4,200 miles (severe)

The oil type factor adjusts for synthetic vs mineral oil longevity.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: March 2026

All calculations are estimates. Actual figures may vary based on driving conditions, vehicle specifications, and other factors.